Apple is set to release a software update next month that will bring lossless audio support to its AirPods Max headphones. This update, delivered via iOS 18.4, iPadOS 18.4, and macOS Sequoia 15.4, will allow users to experience higher-quality audio when using a wired connection with the USB-C compatible AirPods Max.
The highly anticipated feature will enable 24-bit, 48 kHz lossless audio, which preserves the integrity of the original recording, allowing listeners to hear music as the artist intended. Apple Music subscribers will be able to enjoy over 100 million songs in lossless audio. The update will also extend lossless audio support to Personalized Spatial Audio, providing a more immersive and sonically accurate listening experience.
This enhancement primarily targets music creators, enabling them to fully utilize AirPods Max throughout their professional workflow using applications like Logic Pro. By connecting the headphones with a USB-C cable, musicians can record and mix with Personalized Spatial Audio, complete with head tracking, without sacrificing audio fidelity. Apple states that the updated AirPods Max will be the only headphones that allow musicians to create and mix in Personalized Spatial Audio with head tracking.
In addition to lossless audio, the update will introduce ultra-low latency audio to the AirPods Max. This reduces lag time to a level comparable to the built-in speakers on Macs, iPads, and iPhones. This improvement benefits gamers and livestreamers, providing a smoother and more immersive experience with near-instantaneous response times.
It's important to note that the lossless audio and ultra-low latency features will only be available when using a wired connection via the USB-C port on the newer AirPods Max model. Owners of the original AirPods Max with a Lightning port will not be able to access these features due to hardware limitations.
To support the wired connectivity required for lossless audio, Apple is now offering a USB-C to 3.5mm audio cable for $39. This cable allows users to connect their AirPods Max to devices with a 3.5mm audio output, such as airplane entertainment systems, or to connect their iOS or iPadOS devices to car stereos or other speakers with 3.5mm audio inputs. Notably, this USB-C to 3.5mm cable also functions in reverse, enabling devices like iPhones or iPads to connect to audio-in ports commonly found in car stereos.
The AirPods Max were first introduced in December 2020 and received a USB-C update in September 2024. Despite being in Apple's product lineup for over four years, this update marks a significant enhancement for the over-ear headphones. The addition of lossless audio and ultra-low latency support addresses a key request from audiophiles and professional users, further solidifying the AirPods Max as a premium audio solution within the Apple ecosystem.
